Couturie Forest

A natural escape in the heart of the city

Location:

Hours

Admission

Contact

Couturie Forest is the perfect place to escape from the city without ever leaving town! Combined with Scout Island, the 60-acre Couturie Forest is a nature-lover’s haven filled with native trees, scenic waterways, and fascinating wildlife — all in the heart of the New Orleans.

The forest is a great place to wander with your kids, family, and friends. An afternoon along the trails is more than just exciting – it’s an easy way to work in some exercise and learn a thing or two about the park’s rich, natural landscape. Expect to see countless varieties of trees, fish, and birds along the trails and beautiful waterways. Couturie Forrest was named New Orleans’ top bird-watching destination, and it’s not uncommon for birders to see 40 species or more in a single outing.

Couturie Forest is made up of eight distinct ecosystems and is home to New Orleans’ highest point of elevation: Laborde Mountain. Measuring a daunting 43 feet above sea level, oxygen and sherpas are available upon request.

After Hurricane Katrina, Couturie Forest became a laboratory for the rebirth of a forest. The more often you visit, the more you’ll see the gradual, natural revitalization taking place, including the restoration of a tree canopy, the eradication of invasive species, and the growth process of thousands of new saplings.

In 2015, a new entrance to the forest was built. Still on Harrison Avenue, enter through the gates, park in the gravel lot, and walk in to the forest over a the bridge. The bridge is a great place to stand and look for turtles in the lagoon or to fish.

And remember: the magic of Couturie Forest wouldn’t be possible without the support and work of volunteers. Visit the volunteer page for more information.